The cozy NARTi hall, located on the second floor, has now also become a cinema where films can be screened. The interior of the retro-style cinema dates back to the 1970s, and the hall accommodates around 120 seats.
The Amalie Cinema was named after a well-known woman from Narva’s history. Amalie Elisabeth Kreisberg (1879–1906) worked at the Kreenholm Manufacturing Company at the turn of the century and died defending the interests of her fellow workers. This strong female figure became an inspiration for more than one generation. In her honor, a children’s club and a library were named, both of which were located in the building that now houses the Narva Art Residency. The older generation still refers to this building as “Amalie.”
This is a powerful message that fits well with the cinema’s concept, as each film is dedicated to a main character accomplishing heroic deeds.
The space has been used as a cinema for over seventy years: it was set up here during the renovation of the building carried out after the end of World War II. At that time, in addition to film screenings, concerts and important meetings were also held here.
With the support of the city of Narva and the British Council’s P2P program, around 30 films were shown at the Amalie Cinema for the general public between 2022 and 2024, including “Sisters of the Smoke Sauna,” “Compartment No. 6,” “Truth and Justice,” and “Kalev.”
As of 2025, film screenings at the Amalie Cinema are rare, but the activity could be reactivated with new funding. Currently, the hall hosts events organized by residents, including installations, concerts, rental events, and other activities.
(Photo credits: Elizaveta Gross, Maria Zaikina)